Santa Monica police will conduct a motorcycle safety enforcement operation on Sunday, July 6 at undisclosed locations across the city in an effort to lower deaths and injuries.
SMPD Lt. Jay Moroso said extra officers would be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcyclists and where motorcycle crashes occur.
“Officers will be looking for violations made by drivers and riders alike that can lead to motorcycle crashes,” Moroso said. “Enforcement efforts will focus on those who operate cars and trucks, as well as motorcyclists who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, making illegal turns, or any other dangerous violations.”
Moroso said motorcycle fatalities saw a phenomenal drop of 37 percent from 2008 to 2010, but then rose 23 percent by 2012. Operations like this are aimed at curbing any more rises in motorcycle deaths, Moroso said.
“California collision data reveals that primary causes of motorcycle-involved crashes include speeding, unsafe turning, and impairment due to alcohol and other drugs,” Moroso said. “The Santa Monica Police Department is also reminding all motorists to always be alert and watch out for motorcycles, especially when turning and changing lanes. Drivers should be aware that motorcycle lane splitting is legal if done in a safe and prudent manner.”
Motorcycle riders should consult the Lane Splitting General Guidelines to learn more at www.ots.ca.gov/lanesplittinggeneralguidelines.pdf.
Riders can get training through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program. Information and training locations are available at www.CA-msp.org or 1-877 RIDE 411 or 1-877-743-3411.
